Newsletter V2

Northern India & Nepal

Introducing Earth Journeys... Created by Tauck and BBC Earth

2015 Prices From $9,940 plus on-tour air for 17 Days - Tauck World Discovery

Explore magnificent forests with Tauck and BBC Earth... From the Arabian Sea to the Himalayas, from the ultramodern architecture of New Dehli to the forests of Kanha and Bandhavgarh national parks, our unique experiences show you the incomparable cultural diversity, compelling history, and spectacular natural beauty of the subcontinent – Nepal and Northern India amaze you. Access to technology such as thermal imaging, camera traps, and shotgun microphones brings a new perspective to unseen natural realms. Stay in a tented camp in the heart of India’s premier wildlife reserve… set off on game-viewing safaris in search of the elusive tiger... fly over the landscapes of Mt. Everest on a flightseeing tour… visit a Buddhist monastery in Kathmandhu… discover the architecture of Bhaktapur, along the ancient trading route from Nepal to Tibet… feel the spiritual passion of the Taj Mahal, poetry in marble… explore the Heritage section of Mumbai and the former Prince of Wales Museum… wander awestruck among the eye-opening Hindu temples of Khajuraho… and enjoy an unusual opportunity to join in hands-on community projects as a volunteer in places where there is need, working with local villagers to improve their lives, forging friendships across cultures.

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Your Nepal and Northern India trip begins: The Oberoi, Gurgaon. A transfer is included from Indira Gandhi International Airport to The Oberoi, Gurgaon. Most international flights arrive between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM local time, 10 1/2 hours ahead of the U.S. (EST). To ease the effects of jet lag, consider traveling to India a day early; ask at booking. Your hotel is a masterpiece of modern design – cool glass panels create a striking jewel box of forest green and ocean blue, mirroring reflective pools and landscaped gardens; a calming oasis in a busy, upscale financial center.

Lodging

The Oberoi, Gurgaon

Day2

A day inside New Delhi

Meals

B, L, D

Contrasting images of Delhi, ancient and uber-modern, parade past on the first day of your India trip. View city landmarks with an insider guide, including Vijay Chowk (Victory Square), the Secretariat buildings, the Parliament House, the Presidential Palace and the India Gate. Marvel at Qutb Minar, India’s tallest minaret (over 237 feet high), a red sandstone tower built in 1193, covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran; the Emperor Humayun’s Tomb, an exquisite masterpiece of Mughal architecture built in 1562; and the Gandhi Smriti Museum – “smriti” means “remembrance” – a beautifully landscaped complex that holds many artifacts of Gandhi’s remarkable life. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner tonight.

Lodging

The Oberoi, Gurgaon

Day3

The magic of Old Delhi

Meals

B, L, D

Early risers have an opportunity to attend a simple yoga class before exploring Old Delhi this morning. Its labyrinthine streets are a wonder to explore, teeming with life, shops, and a dizzying mix of architectural styles, where around any corner you may encounter elaborately decorated, centuries-old havelis (mansions), mosques and temples. Visit Lal Qila, residence of the Mughal emperors from the 17th century to Victorian times, commonly called the Red Fort for its red sandstone battlements. See the colorful, poignant memorial to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, on the banks of the Yamuna River, the site of his cremation (a customary stop for visiting foreign dignitaries). The rest of the day is free for you to explore a choice of city museums. Dinner is at leisure in the hotel.

Lodging

The Oberoi, Gurgaon

Day4

Flight to Kathmandu in Nepal

Meals

B, D

Today your Nepal and India trip continues as you and your small group fly to Kathmandu, capital city of Nepal (elevation 4,600 ft.), set in a valley of the Himalayas; green slopes ring the metropolis with forests and nature reserves. Touch down for a three-day stay that celebrates the natural charms and spiritual tapestry of this small mountainous country. En route to your hotel, visit a golden-roofed temple with silver doors, an architectural gem nestled on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. Then settle into the antiquarian splendor of your family-run hotel, a complex of buildings and courtyards of outstanding Nepali craftsmanship, with intricately carved architectural features, and an extensive collection of local artifacts (some dating back to the 13th century).

Lodging

Dwarika's Hotel

Day5

Mt. Everest flightseeing & exploring Kathmandu

Meals

B, L, D

Soar over glacier-clad, cloud-shrouded peaks and otherworldly landscapes around Mount Everest on a flightseeing* excursion, an awe-inspiring experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. Your next ride is aboard a rickshaw as you explore Thamel, a marketplace of shops and restaurants teeming with local color. Next stop is Durbar Square, a World Heritage Site for its jaw-dropping collection of towering ancient temples and pagodas clustered around the old royal palace. Another must-see is Kasthamandap Pavilion, a three-roofed building said to be built in the 12th century from the timber of a single sal tree, without nails or other iron support (from this miraculous tree and pavilion the city derives its name). From here, drive to the hilltop shrine of Swayamhunath Stupa, a pilgrimage site sacred to Buddhists and Hindus, also known as The Monkey Temple, because of the holy monkeys who reside there. The tower of the temple is painted with eyes, from which Lord Buddha keeps watch over the inhabitants of the valley – certainly the views from here are stunning, and you can enjoy the scenery too on the return trip to your hotel. Tonight hear a lecture by a Sherpa who has climbed Mount Everest numerous times, followed by a Q&A before dinner. This day is sure to be a highlight of your Nepal and India trip.

Lodging

Dwarika's Hotel

Day6

Wonders of Kopan Monastery, Boudhanath & Bhaktapur

Meals

B, L

On a lofty hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, adorned with colorful prayer flags, statuary and sacred art, Kopan Monastery draws seekers of spiritual enlightenment from all over the world. Join the Tibetan Buddhist monks as they start their day with prayer and meditation (a ceremony of bells and chanting mantras) before paying a visit to the famous stupa (spiritual monument) of Boudhanath, built during the 5th century, a colossal spherical temple that represents the Mind of Buddha (from a tower his painted eyes keep watch over Kathmandu Valley). At least 29 monasteries surround this immense shrine adorned with prayer flags and prayer wheels, its structure reflecting the design of a mandala. Next explore Bhaktapur, the third largest city in the valley, where cobblestone streets free from traffic make walking in this ancient, picturesque town of traditional art and architecture a pleasure. Its famous centuries-old craftsmanship continues; you will find potters, woodcarvers and weavers here as well as photogenic temples, courtyards and venerable squares.

Lodging

Dwarika's Hotel

Day7

Flight to Delhi and on to Agra

Meals

B, L, D

Fly back to Delhi early this morning, then take a drive to Agra, home to a must-see of any India tour and one of the world’s most famous structures, the Taj Mahal. The unsurpassed pinnacle of Mughal architecture (a mix of Persian, Turkish and Indian influences), this graceful white marble mausoleum was built in 1653 by the grief-stricken Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, as a memorial to his wife who died in childbirth. Settle in at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra whose design inspired by Mughal architecture will take you back to the era of emperors in a luxurious setting of terraced lawns, reflective pools and pavilions, overlooking the famous monument.

Lodging

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Day8

The incomparable Taj Mahal & the Red Fort in Agra

Meals

B, L, D

This morning, explore the Taj Mahal on an optional sunrise visit or just after breakfast – or both. The massive mausoleum, designed after an Islamic garden of paradise, took thousands of artisans and craftsmen to construct, yet its white marble gives it a sense of weightlessness and spirituality, echoing a passion that never fails to move visitors. Next, visit the red sandstone Agra Fort, a vast walled complex once surrounded by a deep, water-filled moat, which protected the palaces (and treasures) of sultans and emperors. Tonight, attend a special dinner (which will require special preparations) – ladies will be shown how to wear their choice of a traditional sari (with a delicate touch of henna painting) and the gentlemen, a traditional turban (what India trip would be complete without one?).

Lodging

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Day9

Khajuraho's incredible Hindu temples

Meals

B, L, D

The city of Khajuraho holds the largest concentration of Hindu and Jain temples in the country; originally there were 80 in the span of 8 square miles, now only 25 remain, but that is still enough to make Khajuraho one of the “seven wonders of India,” and your India trip takes you there by rail today. The stunning collection of massive temples built between the 9th and 10th centuries by the Chandela Dynasty are famously covered with elaborate sculptures of deities, warriors and sensuous maidens. Retire to your hotel, only a short walk from the temples, to catch your breath and relax in a tranquil setting of lush gardens and pools.

Lodging

The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho

Day10

Bandhavgarh National Park

Meals

B, L, D

A scenic drive takes you to Bandhavgarh National Park; Bengal Tigers roam here, but these masters of camouflage are elusive and hard to spot. The park’s jungles, the rocky hills, wooded forests and meadows are also home to cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, spotted deer, bison, wolves, and about 350 species of birds; keep your eyes peeled on a jungle safari this afternoon.

Lodging

Mahua Kothi

Day11

On safari in Bandhavgarh

Meals

B, L, D

A daybreak drive in an open-topped jeep, with expert trackers, takes you and your small group into the heart of Bandhavgarh Forest in search of the park's elusive big cats. (There’s no guarantee you’ll see one, but as a local saying here goes: “In most places you’re lucky to see a tiger; here, you’re extraordinarily unlucky not to see one.”) But there’s an abundance of other wildlife in the rocky hills, lush deciduous trees, marshes, and grasslands – as well as a historic hilltop fort dating back to the 1st century AD – that make this one of India’s most scenic parks. This afternoon you can choose between going out on safari again or visiting a local village, to spend a rewarding afternoon interacting with the residents, working on a community service project or perhaps reading to students in a local school. (Either choice will be a highlight of your India trip.)

Lodging

Mahua Kothi

Day12

Kipling's Kanha National Park

Meals

B, L, D

Depart Bandavgarh and travel to Kanha National Park, immortalized by British writer Rudyard Kipling in The Jungle Book, and considered India’s finest game sanctuary; your three-night stay in the heart of it will be an unforgettable feature of your India trip. Enjoy the wilderness in comfort: your elegantly designed tented camp is situated on the banks of the Banjaar River; amenities include a swimming pool, a guest lounging area, and a dining deck with dramatic river views.

Lodging

Banjaar Tola

Day13

Into the jungle on Kahna safari drives

Meals

B, L, D

Morning and afternoon safari drives take you into the jungle for up-close encounters with park wildlife. The park has a place in literary history: Rudyard Kipling was inspired to write his Jungle Book stories after spending time here among the sal and bamboo forests, meadows and ravines, in the company of tigers, leopards, bears, and numerous other wild denizens – about 22 animal species live here, along with 300 species of birds. (You may come away with your own stories.)

Lodging

Banjaar Tola

Day14

Kanha game drive & lending a hand in a village

Meals

B, L, D

Enjoy a morning’s safari drive in Kanha National Park, then you can choose between taking another jungle excursion in the afternoon or lending a hand with one of several ongoing community projects alongside village residents.

Lodging

Banjaar Tola

Day15

Welcome to Mumbai (Bombay)

Meals

B, L, D

Depart your lodge in Kanha early this morning for a flight from Jabalpur as your India trip continues to Mumbai on the Arabian Sea. Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai today is India’s richest city: hip, multicultural, cosmopolitan, home to Bollywood and a thriving financial center. Arrive in Mumbai in time for lunch at a local restaurant, then take a brief guided tour of landmark city sights en route to your oceanfront luxury hotel. Dinner is at leisure in the hotel tonight.

Lodging

The Oberoi, Mumbai

Day16

A famous gateway, heritage sites & museums in Mumbai

Meals

B, L

Begin today's discovery of Mumbai, India's economic powerhouse, with a visit to the famed Gateway of India, a colossal waterfront monument built during the British Raj, sometimes called “the Taj Mahal of Mumbai.” Explore the city's Heritage area, including a stop at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) and Central Railway Headquarters building, Mumbai's only UNESCO World Heritage Site; and a visit to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya – formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum – one of India's greatest museums, with some 50,000 exhibits featuring ancient Indian history as well as art and artifacts representing archaeology and natural history from around the world. After an afternoon spent as you please, join us for a farewell cocktail reception at your hotel this evening.

Lodging

The Oberoi, Mumbai

Day17

Journey home

Meals

B

Tauck's Nepal and Northern India trip ends: Mumbai. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from The Oberoi, Mumbai to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Most international flights depart between 2:00 – 3:00 AM; you should allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in.

Note: Activities marked with an asterisk (*) are at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Group size averages 20! All departures are small groups averaging 20 guests, ensuring a more intimate travel experience.

Note: Flying time to Delhi averages about 18 hours from gateway
cities in the U.S., and may include a stop-over in Europe; most
international flights arrive between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM local time,
10½ hours ahead of U.S. (EST). To ease the effects of jet lag, consider
traveling to India a day early, rather than arriving late at night on
Day 1. Tauck can arrange an extra night at The Oberoi, Gurgaon in
Delhi. Ask for details upon booking.

Note: Activities marked with an asterisk (*) are at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

A two-night stay in Bandhavgarh National Park, one of India’s most important tiger reserves, and a three-night stay in Kanha National Park, the lush setting for Rudyard Kipling’s famous The Jungle Book

Flightseeing amidst the tallest mountains in the world, the Himalayas, for magnificent panoramic mountain views including Mount Everest

A meditation lesson with local monks in Kathmandu

A Q & A lecture with a sherpa who has climbed Mount Everest several times

Learning the art of dressing in a sari and turban for a special dinner

A visit to the timeless and vehicle-free Nepali city of Bhaktapur, with centuries-old squares where you will mingle with potters and woodcarvers

Air Travel & Services

Traveling with Tauck ensures more than a memorable travel experience; it also enables you to take advantage of additional do-it-for-you travel services that take the hassle out of arranging them yourself. As an added service, we can make flight arrangements for your journey, if your travels originate in the United States, offering you a number of welcome advantages. With Tauck, you can:

Reserve your flights now; pay later when tickets are issued

Enjoy significant savings on Business Class airfare on select flights

Benefit from Tauck’s lenient change and refund policies

Earn Frequent Flyer mileage on most airlines

What's more, if you purchase Tauck's Guest Protection, you'll receive a refund should you need to cancel your flights due to covered reasons. Another great reason to buy your air from Tauck!

Overnight Accommodations

Nights 1 - 3
:
The Oberoi, Gurgaon
-
Delhi, India

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

Located in the heart of the city’s prime shopping and business district, The Oberoi, Gurgaon, an “island of Height, Light and Space,” is an oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern-day Delhi. Spacious guestrooms, in a color palette of brown, beige, and white with tinges of reds, feature landscape windows that spread light through the space while providing views of the landscaped gardens or the reflection pool. Each offers a 46-inch LED TV with satellite channels, an iPod docking station, media hubs for audio and video, minibar and electronic safe along with other thoughtful amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The Olympic-size, heated outdoor swimming pool invites a dip while the 8,000-square-foot Oberoi Spa, overlooking the pool and the maze garden, is available 24 hours a day if you’re in need of rejuvenation… or, there’s always the Gymnasium with its 24-hour availability. Five interactive show kitchens put Teppanyaki, Sushi and Sashimi, Chinese wokkerie and Indian tandoors and curries on center stage at threesixtyone, whether you choose to dine indoors or on the torch-lit teakwood decks floating on the 36,000-square-foot reflecting pool. If traditional Indian cuisine is calling you, you’ll find delights from nine different coastal regions of the country to sample at Amaranta. The exclusive Wine Room, a part of the Piano Bar, has a connoisseur’s wine list to choose from or you can enjoy a handmade Cuban cigar accompanied by your favorite liqueur or single origin coffee in the Cigar Lounge, the first in the country.

Nights 4 - 6
:
Dwarika's Hotel
-
Kathmandu, Nepal

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

An authentic “sense of place” pervades Dwarika’s Hotel, a heritage hotel that surrounds guests with the artistic genius of Kathmandu’s Newar people as seen in their exquisite works in sculpture and paintings, as well as artifacts some dating back to the 14th century. Modeled on the architectural magnificence of the palaces of the Newar Kings, a stay here is a true experience of Nepali culture and hospitality. Reflecting traditional life in the valley, guest rooms evoke a lifestyle without compromise featuring organically produced, hand-woven linens and custom-designed, handmade furniture. Feel like royalty as you swim is a pool reminiscent of the Malla Dynasty baths in the 12th century, keep up with your workout routine in the Das Gym or surrender yourself to the pleasures of The Pancha Kosha Himalayan Spa offering a range of massages imbued with the wisdom and natural herbs, essences and oils of the Himalayan region. Dine as Nepali maharajahs once did at Krishnarpan, which serves the finest traditional cuisines of Nepal, or indulge yourself with exceptional Japanese cuisine at Mako’s, surrounded by an ambiance combining Zen-like minimalism and 14th-century Nepali architecture. The more casual Toran restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating throughout the day and the Fusion Bar, with its view of the spectacular swimming pool, features exotic fruit cocktails as well as your old favorites.

Nights 7 - 8
:
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
-
Agra, India

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

The luxurious Oberoi Amarvilas is located just 600 meters from the world’s most famous monument, the Taj Mahal. Moorish and Mughal in architecture, it is surrounded by terraced lawns, fountains, reflecting pools and pavilions with rich interiors that are reminiscent of the days of princes and emperors. The readers of Condé Nast Traveler named The Oberoi Amarvilas to the prestigious Gold List and the readers of Travel + Leisure rank it as one of the world’s best hotels. Your guest room, with a view of the Taj Mahal, features Burma Teak flooring, spacious marble bathroom with separate shower and tub, minibar, walk-in closet with electronic safe, LCD TV with satellite channels and DVD player and more. Set in a torch-lit terraced garden, the white marble swimming pool seems straight from The Arabian Nights. If you’re craving some exercise, you’ll find a fully equipped, state-of-the-art gymnasium within the Oberoi Spa. Both the Bellevue, featuring fine international and authentic Indian cuisine, and Esphahan, the specialty Indian restaurant serving traditional Indian dishes, are excellent dining choices. Cap off your evening at the Bar while enjoying your favorite beverage on its terrace with a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal.

Night 9
:
The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho
-
Khajuraho, India

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

Set amidst lush green surroundings close to the western group of the temples of Khajuraho, The LaLiT Temple View Khajuraho enjoys an ideal location. Comfortable guest rooms feature such welcome amenities as air conditioning, coffee / tea maker, iron and ironing board, free in-house movies, satellite and cable TV, international direct-dial telephones and refrigerator. During leisure time, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, have a dip in the pool or indulge yourself at Rejuve – The Spa. Panna, the multi-cuisine restaurant and Mahua, the hotel bar, are sure to please.

Nights 10 - 11
:
Mahua Kothi
-
Bandhavgarh National Park, India

The first of the Taj Safari Lodges, the Mahua Kothi, which gets its name from one of India’s most beautiful trees, is close to Bandhavgarh National Park. Sprawled over 40 acres, the facilities and accommodations blend beautifully with the surrounding countryside and the Mahua Kothi experience focuses on guests’ individual needs and emotions with innovative, sophisticated service. Guests are accommodated in Kutiyas, brand-new cottage suites with charming local touches such as wooden shutters, high ceilings with open rafters and rough-hewn beams, handmade pottery roof tiles, tapered hand-finished walls and locally made textiles. Each provides such welcome amenities as air conditioning, ceiling fans and an in-room safe. When you’re not out on safari in search of wildlife, take a dip in the swimming pool, read up on the area in the library or wander into the open kitchen to watch the staff working at such tasks as churning butter. The freshest local ingredients combine with traditional cooking and dining customs to make every meal at Mahau Kothi a delight – and choices of dining venues make the experience richly memorable.

Nights 12 - 14
:
Banjaar Tola
-
Kanha National Park, India

Set on the banks of the Banjaar River, Banjaar Tola overlooks Kanha National Park, founded in 1955 as a tiger reserve and one of nine reserves that are part of “Project Tiger,” begun in 1973 to save India’s tigers. Guest accommodations are in two elegant camps, each consisting of nine tented suites. Set on a raised platform that touches the ground at only seven points to ensure a “light footprint," each suite offers a private deck overlooking the river and the heart of the park, pressed bamboo floors and wall panels, wood furniture crafted from fallen trees and driftwood enhanced by tones of cinnamon, saffron and green to create a light, airy and elegant camping feel. Each camp has its own comfortable tented seating area showcasing works in metal, fabric and stone by talented artisans and a small interpretive library. This is “tiger territory” and during daily safaris you may see them as well as sloth bears, wild boars hyenas and Jackals and many other species. During time at leisure relax by the swimming pool, browse in the Safari Shop. Indian cuisine, including Haandi dishes served in earthenware pots, make dining on the spacious jungle deck memorable.

Nights 15 - 16
:
The Oberoi, Mumbai
-
Mumbai (Bombay), India

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

Located on Nariman Point with the best view of Mumbai with the tip of the “Queen’s Necklace,” Marine Drive, on its doorstep, The Oberoi, Mumbai couldn’t be in a better location. Away from the hustle and bustle found in other parts of the city, it is still close to shops, restaurants and other pleasant diversions. Like the other famous Oberoi hotels, The Oberoi, Mumbai warmly welcomes guests with top-notch service in a luxurious ambiance. The hotel is in the midst of a multi-million renovation after which more specific information regarding new guest room amenities, recreational facilities and dining options will be available.

Extend Your Trip

Many Tauck travelers prefer arriving at their destination a day before
their Tauck journey begins, or often extend a stay at the end of their
trip. As a service, Tauck will make hotel reservations before and after
your journey.

Arrive Early:
The Oberoi, Gurgaon
- Delhi, India

Located in the heart of the city’s prime shopping and business district, The Oberoi, Gurgaon, an “island of Height, Light and Space,” is an oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern-day Delhi. Spacious guestrooms, in a color palette of brown, beige, and white with tinges of reds, feature landscape windows that spread light through the space while providing views of the landscaped gardens or the reflection pool. Each offers a 46-inch LED TV with satellite channels, an iPod docking station, media hubs for audio and video, minibar and electronic safe along with other thoughtful amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The Olympic-size, heated outdoor swimming pool invites a dip while the 8,000-square-foot Oberoi Spa, overlooking the pool and the maze garden, is available 24 hours a day if you’re in need of rejuvenation… or, there’s always the Gymnasium with its 24-hour availability. Five interactive show kitchens put Teppanyaki, Sushi and Sashimi, Chinese wokkerie and Indian tandoors and curries on center stage at threesixtyone, whether you choose to dine indoors or on the torch-lit teakwood decks floating on the 36,000-square-foot reflecting pool. If traditional Indian cuisine is calling you, you’ll find delights from nine different coastal regions of the country to sample at Amaranta. The exclusive Wine Room, a part of the Piano Bar, has a connoisseur’s wine list to choose from or you can enjoy a handmade Cuban cigar accompanied by your favorite liqueur or single origin coffee in the Cigar Lounge, the first in the country.

Stay Later:
The Oberoi, Mumbai
- Mumbai (Bombay), India

Located on Nariman Point with the best view of Mumbai with the tip of the “Queen’s Necklace,” Marine Drive, on its doorstep, The Oberoi, Mumbai couldn’t be in a better location. Away from the hustle and bustle found in other parts of the city, it is still close to shops, restaurants and other pleasant diversions. Like the other famous Oberoi hotels, The Oberoi, Mumbai warmly welcomes guests with top-notch service in a luxurious ambiance. The hotel is in the midst of a multi-million renovation after which more specific information regarding new guest room amenities, recreational facilities and dining options will be available.

Before You Go

There are bound to be questions when travelling. Information on everything from weather to internet connections can be found below.

Inclusive Prices

Tour Prices

Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, entertainment, special dinners, motor coach transportation, sightseeing, porterage, admissions, the services of Tauck Directors, local guides and drivers are included. Transportation from Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport to the Oberoi Gurgaon is included provided you furnish us with accurate flight arrival information at least three weeks prior to the start of your tour. Transportation from The Oberoi, Mumbai to Chhatrapati Shivaji (Mumbai/Sahar) International Airport is also included when you check out of the hotel. Transportation to and from airports and train stations may be shared with other Tauck guests.

Hotel Accommodations

The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triple requests on this tour will be accommodated in one two-bedded room and one single-bedded room at the Oberoi Gurgaon and Oberoi Mumbai. These accommodations, when so outfitted, limit the amount of open space in the room.

Tauck Director

Northern India & Nepal is conducted by a Tauck Director who remains with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully trained employee of Tauck.

Meals

Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.

Gratuities Included

All customary gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, local guides and drivers are included.

Luggage Handling and Restrictions

Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour

Due to strictly enforced weight restrictions on the on-tour flights, luggage weight per person must not exceed 44 lbs (20 kg) and you are permitted only one piece of checked luggage. Luggage exceeding the allowable weight is subject to excess baggage charges that can result in a considerable additional expense.

The maximum allowable weight for carry-on luggage is 15 lbs (6.8 kg), and the maximum allowable dimensions are 22” by 14” by 10” (55.9 cm by 35.6 cm by 25 cm). These dimensions include all wheels, handles, pockets, etc. If these dimensions are exceeded, the carry-on piece will be checked.

Regulations within most airports require that customers handle their own luggage through customs.

You will be required to pack an overnight bag during for your three night trip to Kathmandu from Delhi on day 4 of your itinerary. You will be reunited with your checked luggage upon your arrival in Agra on day 7.

For your convenience, you will be provided with a duffel bag upon arrival in India. Packing an overnight bag on these occasions will ensure the safe and timely arrival of your luggage at your next destination, and we appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

No Options Sold

Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.

On Tour Flights

Three on-tour flights must be purchased through us as part of your tour package.

Travel Documents Required

All U.S. citizens require a valid passport to enter India and Nepal, and that passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. (Please note that although adult passports are valid for a full ten years, children's passports require renewal every five years.) Your passport must also contain at least three blank visa pages. If you are a United States citizen and do not have a valid passport, please contact the closest U.S. passport agency or consult the U.S. State Department web site for detailed information on how to obtain or renew your passport at: www.travel.state.gov. In addition to a valid passport, and as noted in the Summary of Purchase you received confirming your reservation, U.S. citizens are also required to have visas to enter India and Nepal. Please note that these visas must be processed within six months of your arrival. Your Summary of Purchase also indicated various options on how to obtain your visas. To review (and if you are currently within the parameters of the timeframe noted above), you may elect to work with VisaCentral (a visa-assistance provider) to obtain your visas, with another visa-assistance provider of your choosing, or by working directly with the Indian and Nepalese Embassies or Consulates. (If you opt to work with VisaCentral, their services are available online at www.visacentral.com/tauck.)

PLEASE NOTE: A MULTIPLE-ENTRY VISA IS REQUIRED FOR INDIA. If you do not have a multiple-entry visa for India, you will not be permitted to re-enter India on Day 7 of your tour following the Nepal portion of your itinerary. (You will not be able to obtain an Indian visa while in Nepal.) When obtaining your visas, you must inform the visa agent/embassy that you will be traveling to Nepal from India and re-entering India.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Failure to obtain ALL necessary documentation prior to your tour may result in being denied entry into a country, or delays in entry until proper documentation can be obtained. In consideration of the larger group (and to maintain our planned itinerary), travelers who have failed to obtain the necessary documentation in advance may need to remain at the airport, and could thus be responsible for arranging (and paying for) their own transportation to join the group. Tauck will not be responsible for obtaining any missing documentation, nor will Tauck be responsible for any expenses incurred, missed tour components or other losses resulting from the failure to obtain proper travel documents in advance.

Non-U.S. citizens should check with the Indian and Nepalese Embassies or Consulates to determine necessary travel documents.Admission into Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks is strictly regulated by Indian authorities, and permission to enter must be applied for in advance and secured by providing a passport number for each person traveling into the parks. Tauck will arrange the necessary permission for you to enter the parks, using the passport information you provided to us at your time of booking.

PLEASE NOTE: If your passport requires renewal before your departure for India, you will need to bring your expired passport AND your new passport with you on your journey. Your new passport (with a new passport number) will be required to travel internationally. Your expired passport (with the older passport number provided to Indian authorities) will still be required to enter into Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks. Failure to bring the appropriate passport will result in your being denied entry into the parks.

It is a good idea to carry a photocopy of the photo page of your passport in a place other than with the original, and to leave a copy of all your travel documents with a friend or relative at home.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Not Included

Transportation

Transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included.

Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours

To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. Airport transfers are included in these bookings as described above in Inclusive Prices. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult Extend Your Trip in the Accommodations section above on this webpage and discuss it with the reservations agent when you book your tour.

Luggage Responsibility

Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section below for more information.

Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:

Do not pack any vital medications or valuables in your checked luggage

Confirm that your luggage is checked and tagged to your final destination at airport check-in

Place your luggage claim tags in a secure place for your flight

File a claim for any missing luggage immediately before leaving the baggage claim area

Secure a case number and contact information for follow-up communications

Make certain that the airline has your onward itinerary

Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.

Personal Expenses

Personal Expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.

Tauck Director Gratuities

The customary gratuities for the Tauck Director and local drivers are not included. We ask that gratuities be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.

Preparing to Go

Journey Start and End Times

Journey Start and End Times are provided at the time of booking. The tour begins with your arrival at The Oberoi Gurgaon on the first day of the tour. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, please allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time. The tour ends when you check out of The Oberoi, Mumbai. Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.

Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility

We pledge to make every effort to operate all tours as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.

Holiday and Museum Closures

Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and civic holidays locally observed.You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.

Photography On Tour

Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.

Membership

Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.

ATM and Credit Cards

We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on your journey to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be “suspicious” charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Cell Phone Usage

We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone during motor coach travel, group functions, when sightseeing and when the Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make or receive calls at times when it does not affect others.

Health and Activity

Your journey to the subcontinent is very active and includes three on-tour flights. You should be in good health and able to walk moderate distances over varied terrain. Various modes of transportation will be used to highlight different aspects of the culture and geography of India and Nepal, including airplane, train, motor coach, open jeep and riverboat.

There is a significant amount of walking on this journey; however, the pace of the itinerary has been carefully planned to intersperse sightseeing with leisurely days to ensure you have a most enjoyable time.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES: This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey. Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Guests should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues. The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. Due to the ancient nature of several of the sites you will visit during your sojourn in India and Nepal, stairs and walkways are sometimes dark, uneven, steep and/or slippery.

It can also be quite warm when sightseeing at Elephanta Island, but using sun protection, including wearing a hat and sunglasses, and drinking lots of water can help minimize the impact of the weather.

We advise that you always drink bottled water with an unbroken seal. Avoid having ice in your drinks, and clean your teeth with bottled water.

Public toilet facilities are rare. You are encouraged to take every opportunity to use a clean toilet in places such as hotels and restaurants. Most hotels catering to an international clientele provide western style restroom facilities.

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches. Hotels in India and Nepal do not always have designated non-smoking rooms, but your preference will be forwarded to the hotels and every effort will be made to accommodate your request, although it cannot be guaranteed.

Always keep mosquito repellent with you and be sure to pay special attention to mosquito protection between dusk and dawn.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country. These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here. You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting. Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren’t required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site. It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective. Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.

Airline Disinsection

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a guidance letter that requires airlines and travel agents to disclose to consumers countries that require the use of insecticides by airlines. Please click here for more information.

Visiting Bandhavgarh National Park And Kanha National Park

The opportunity to experience both Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks will be a highlight of your trip, although the parks’ remote locations do present additional challenges that you likely will not have experienced on other Tauck journeys. For example and as noted above, both parks are extremely isolated. While this is largely responsible for their significant wildlife populations and their resulting popularity with travelers, it also means that clean restroom facilities aren’t as readily available as they are on other Tauck itineraries. As a result, restroom visits on selected portions of this itinerary are less frequent and three hours or more may elapse between scheduled stops.

Also, accessing both parks necessitates lengthy motorcoach rides of five hours or more, and some of the roads used to reach the parks (and certainly the roads within the parks themselves) can be very bumpy. These road conditions, and the fact that our travel within the parks will be in jeeps with relatively stiff front and rear suspensions, may make this trip uncomfortable or even unsuitable for those with chronic back problems. If you have any health concerns related to your journey, please be sure to consult your physician before your departure.

Finally, the local tiger populations are large and the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is certainly an unforgettable thrill. However, we can make no guarantees that you or your group will actually encounter any tigers during your time in the parks. Tigers can be elusive and the typically dense forests of the parks can make them more difficult to spot than wildlife seen in the more open savannah-type landscapes found on most African safaris. Patience, attentiveness and a keen eye are you best tools to help ensure you’ll be treated to views of tigers in the wild.

Local Customs –

Eating – In India and Nepal, people often eat with the right hand. The left hand is considered unclean and is generally not used to eat or to handle food and money.

Feet - The soles of your feet pointing towards someone is considered offensive, so care should be taken not to do this. In the same vein, feet should not be placed on furniture. If you accidentally touch someone with your foot, it is common practice to apologize. It is also customary to remove your shoes when entering a private home in addition to places of worship and burial.

Garlands-- If you are given a garland of flowers, remove it after several minutes to demonstrate your humility.

Greetings - Handshakes are not a common method of greeting in India or Nepal. The Indian greeting is to put your hands together in front of your chin (as for praying) and incline your head forward, saying "Namaste".

Language - The official language of India is Hindi in the Devanagri script. The individual states are free to decide their own regional languages for internal administration and education, so there are 18 official languages spoken throughout the country. English is widely spoken in India.

There are more than a hundredlanguages spoken in Nepal. The chief language of Nepal is Nepali, the other languages are spoken to a larger or lesser degree in specific areas of the country.

Personal Space - India is densely populated and people are accustomed to being crowded. However, except in packed buses, strangers avoid touching each other. Cross-gender touching is especially offensive, although it is not uncommon to see same-sex friends holding hands or hugging.

Religious Places - Most temples and mosques prohibit shoes inside the building and signs are sometimes posted when this is the case. Some Hindu temples do not permit non-Hindus to enter. A visitor should ask if there is any doubt and observe other visitors for guidance. In Sikh temples, called gurdwaras, white/saffron head coverings for both men and women are required (and sometimes provided). Priests in gurdwaras also offer the visitor blessed food, which should be accepted with the right hand to avoid giving offense. The food should either be eaten or given to someone else.

It is customary to enter any religious place with the head slightly bowed.

Street Scenes - Guests will have expectations of poverty before arriving in India, but unless you have previously traveled to a developing country, it is hard to suppress one’s shock. You will encounter people, including children, begging in the streets. You will see street scenes which may be unusual, including animals sifting through garbage in the streets. You will also see prosperity and middle class living. Being prepared for these different experiences will better enable you to enjoy your exploration through this colorful, vibrant and hospitable country.

Photography - Special permission of the Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi, is required for use of tripod and artificial light. Photography in the wildlife sanctuaries is allowed on payment of a prescribed fee. In Delhi, videos are not allowed at Humayun's Tomb, and camera fees are imposed at both UNESCO sites visited in Delhi. Videos are not allowed in the Taj Mahal complex past the first viewing area; guests may store their cameras. Costs incurred for photography are at guests' expense.

Your Tauck Director will advise you of all known camera related fees and rules for each city traveled.

Additional Information

Travel With Children

Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.

Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel

If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a notarized note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.

If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.

Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country’s consulate or embassy.

Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment

In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.

Children who are U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the journey.

We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.

Airline Security Measures

If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver’s license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.

If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.

For more information on the TSA's requirements, please visit their website by clicking here.

If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.

Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.

What to Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we’ve partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.

When packing for travel to India and Nepal, we suggest you select a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. In India, delicate fabrics do not stand up well to laundering facilities except at deluxe hotels. Plain cotton or cotton and synthetic blend clothing is the most practical and is the coolest in summer. It is best to avoid synthetic fabrics that do not “breathe”. A hat with a wide brim will help protect you from the harsh sun. During the fall season, a collapsible umbrella comes in handy. During the winter months, sweaters and light jackets are necessary.

In December and January the temperatures in the national park can drop below freezing level and the Jeep rides can be chilly. Several layers and a windbreaker may be neccessary to remain comfortable.

We do not advise you dress in shorts, mini-skirts or tank tops unless you are on a beach. In small towns and cities, people may tend to stare if you expose too much skin. Most locals dress in modest clothing. To respect local customs and sensitivities when in public, we recommend that women wear skirts below the knee or longer or relatively loose slacks. Avoid wearing sleeveless blouses and tight pants. Young women and teenage girls, especially those dressed in tight or short dresses, may attract undesirable attention. Men should avoid going shirtless; trousers are preferable to shorts.

When visiting places of worship, women are not allowed to enter with bare shoulders, short pants or short skirts; a long skirt, dress, or slacks are recommended. A scarf is acceptable to cover shoulders if a woman is wearing a sleeveless top. Head covering is not required. Men should also dress appropriately for a holy sanctuary. Shorts are discouraged. All visitors will be required to remove their shoes in temples and mosques.

For the welcome and farewell dinners, we recommend resort wear to suit a tropical climate.

Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

Upon Arrival...

Air Conditioning

All of the hotels on this tour provide air-conditioning. The motor coaches used on this tour are also air-conditioned for your comfort.

Currency and Exchange Rates

The official currency used in India is called the rupee and banks, hotels, and authorized moneychangers can exchange foreign currency for rupees. Receipts (called “encashment certificates”) should be retained, as these will enable you to reconvert the balance into dollars, or any other foreign currency, when you leave the country, provided the receipt is no more than 30 days old. Most large cities have ATMs that accept Visa and MasterCard as well as American Express. The ATM network is ever expanding, and in some Indian states you can find them in smaller towns. International airports have currency exchange booths that are always open for arriving or departing overseas flights.

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee and comes in denominations of 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Rupee coins are found in denominations of 5, 2 and 1. One rupee equals 100 paisa. Credit cards like American Express, Master and Visa are widely accepted at major hotels, shops, and restaurants. Remember to keep your Foreign Exchange Encashment Receipt while making foreign exchange payments or transferring foreign currency into Nepalese rupees. The receipts may be needed to change left-over Nepalese Rupees into hard currency before leaving the country. ATMs are widely in use in Kathmandu.

To obtain the latest currency exchange rate, you may want to check your local newspaper or by logging on to oanda.com by clicking here.

Customs and Tax-Free Shopping

You should familiarize yourself with the specific required customs declarations of India and Nepal before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries. You may access India’s Central Board of Excise and Customs by clicking here.

Any person can bring into India from a place outside India foreign exchange without any limit. However, declaration of foreign exchange/currency is required to be made in the prescribed Currency Declaration Form in the following cases:

(a) Where the value of foreign currency notes exceeds US$ 5000/- or equivalent.

(b) Where the aggregate value of foreign exchange (in the form of currency notes, bank notes, traveler cheques etc.) exceeds US$ 10,000/- or its equivalent.

If you are a U.S. resident traveling internationally who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour,you are entitled to a duty-free exemption based on the total value of merchandise purchase abroad, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the U.S. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.Many countries levy Value Added Taxes (VAT) on consumer goods and services. (The tax rate may be higher for luxury items and lower for basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country (or of the country’s intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union) in which the purchase is made, you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.

Electrical Current

The electrical current in the hotels in India and Nepal is 220v, 50 Hz, AC. If you bring electrical devices that do not meet these standards, you may need to bring the appropriate converters and adapters.

Internet Access

Complimentary basic Internet where available in hotel rooms; service levels are not guaranteed.

Time Zones

All cities on this journey are located in the same time zone. They are 5.5 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). India and Nepal do not observe Daylight Savings Time or other seasonal adjustments. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.

Elevation

The maximum elevation on this itinerary is 4,600 ft (1,400 m).

Weather

The climate in India and Nepal vary depending on the location and time of travel. In northern India, the weather during the late fall and winter months of October through March is dry with temperatures averaging 45 °F (7 °C) in the early morning and evening, and 70 to 75 °F (21 to 24 °C) during the day. However, as you travel south to Mumbai temperatures rise, with daytime temperatures averaging 75 to 80 °F (24 to 27 °C).

India and Nepal are known for their rainy season, when monsoons make headlines. However, from October through March – the best time to travel – no more than one inch of rain per month on average falls on the cities we visit.

To determine current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.

Average Temperature

Delhi, India

Kathmandu, Nepal

Month

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

January

69 / 45

21 / 7

38 / 2

3 / -17

February

74 / 50

23 / 10

40 / 6

4 / -15

March

84 / 59

29 / 15

46 / 13

8 / -10

April

96 / 70

36 / 21

53 / 21

12 / -6

May

102 / 78

39 / 26

60 / 30

16 / -6

June

101 / 82

38 / 28

67 / 40

20 / 5

July

94 / 80

34 / 27

66 / 45

19 / 7

August

92 / 79

33 / 26

64 / 44

18 / 7

September

93 / 76

34 / 24

62 / 38

17 / 4

October

91 / 67

33 / 19

55 / 24

13 / -4

November

82 / 55

28 / 13

46 / 11

8 / -12

December

73 / 47

23 / 8

40 / 4

5 / -16

Agra, India

Bandavgarh National Park, India

Month

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

January

73 / 43

23 / 6

76 / 51

25 / 11

February

78 / 46

26 / 8

82 / 55

28 / 13

March

89 / 55

32 / 13

92 / 64

33 / 18

April

101 / 67

38 / 19

101 / 73

38 / 23

May

107 / 77

42 / 25

106 / 81

41 / 27

June

105 / 83

41 / 28

99 / 80

37 / 27

July

95 / 80

35 / 27

88 / 76

31 / 24

August

92 / 78

33 / 26

85 / 75

30 / 24

September

93 / 75

34 / 24

88 / 74

31 / 23

October

94 / 62

34 / 17

89 / 68

32 / 20

November

85 / 49

29 / 9

84 / 58

29 / 14

December

76 / 44

24 / 7

78 / 51

26 / 11

Kanha, India

Mumbai, India

Month

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

Hi/Lo ºF

Hi/Lo ºC

January

76 / 51

25 / 11

85 / 66

29 / 19

February

82 / 55

28 / 13

85 / 68

29 / 20

March

92 / 64

33 / 18

88 / 72

31 / 22

April

101 / 73

38 / 23

90 / 77

32 / 25

May

106 / 81

41 / 27

92 / 80

33 / 27

June

99 / 80

37 / 27

89 / 79

32 / 26

July

88 / 76

31 / 24

86 / 77

30 / 25

August

85 / 75

30 / 24

85 / 76

29 / 24

September

88 / 74

31 / 23

86 / 76

30 / 24

October

89 / 68

32 / 20

90 / 77

32 / 25

November

84 / 58

29 / 14

91 / 73

33 / 23

December

78 / 51

26 / 11

88 / 69

31 / 21

Average Rainfall

Delhi, India

Kathmandu, Nepal

Month

Inches

Millimeters

Inches

Millimeters

January

0.8

20

0.0

1

February

0.8

20

0.0

1

March

0.6

15

0.0

0

April

0.8

20

0.1

1

May

1.0

25

0.2

6

June

2.8

71

0.6

16

July

9.3

236

3.2

81

August

9.3

236

3.4

87

September

4.5

114

0.8

20

October

0.7

18

0.1

2

November

0.4

10

0.1

2

December

0.4

10

0.1

2

Agra, India

Bandavgarh National Park, India

Month

Inches

Millimeters

Inches

Millimeters

January

0.3

8

0.5

13

February

0.3

8

0.6

15

March

0.1

3

0.4

9

April

0.2

4

0.2

4

May

0.8

21

0.4

9

June

1.7

42

4.8

121

July

5.8

148

11.2

286

August

5.8

148

11.8

300

September

3.9

99

5.9

149

October

0.8

21

0.8

20

November

0.1

2

0.3

7

December

0.3

7

0.3

7

Kanha, India

Mumbai, India

Month

Inches

Millimeters

Inches

Millimeters

January

0.5

13

0.0

0

February

0.6

15

0.0

0

March

0.4

9

0.0

0

April

0.2

4

0.1

2

May

0.4

9

0.5

12

June

4.8

121

23.3

592

July

11.2

286

26.8

681

August

11.8

300

19.2

488

September

5.9

149

12.1

307

October

0.8

20

2.4

61

November

0.3

7

0.9

23

December

0.3

7

0.1

2

Book This Trip

Have Information Ready

To help expedite your booking, please have the following information ready before you call us:

Tour Name and Departure Date Desired

Traveler Name(s): Please have first and last names as they appear on the passport or driver’s license.

Traveler’s Address(es)

Traveler’s Phone Number(s)

Emergency Contact Information: This would be a relative or friend whom we could contact during the tour in the event of an emergency. Please provide their name and phone number(s).

Interest in purchasing Tauck’s Travel Protection Product (see below).

Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends

Interest in our specially negotiated airfares.

For Reservations Call

For reservations, call 800-788-7885 or contact your travel agent to book today!

Deposit Date

Deposit DateUpon your request, we will hold space tentatively for you and give a “Deposit Due Date,” by which a deposit must be received or space is automatically released. Your deposit is $1000 per person.

Special Requests

Special RequestsWe will be happy to advise hotels of any special requests, provided we receive them at time of booking. We regret that requests cannot be guaranteed.

Final Payment

Final Payment is due at Tauck’s Norwalk, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookingswithout full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.

Final Documents

Final Documents, which may include airline tickets, when applicable, are sent by first class mail upon receipt of final payment. They include joining instructions, hotel lists, tour itinerary, clothing suggestions, luggage tags and other pertinent information. We recommend overnight mailing service for any reservation that is made within 30 days of the tour departure date to ensure timely delivery. The additional expense will be added to your tour cost.

Tauck Travel Protection Product / If You Have To Cancel

Tauck’s Guest Protection

Guests booking a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing cancellation protection from Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck’s Travel Protection Plan is available to all travelers, with the exception of residents of Puerto Rico.

Under Tauck’s all-inclusive Guest Protection, you can cancel your tour for any covered reason up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment. The following conditions apply:

Section I Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck: Should you have to cancel your journey for any reason, Tauck’s Cancellation Waiver reduces the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your journey departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

Section II – Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by Transamerica Casualty Insurance Company. Should you have to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death or other covered reason, any cancellation or airline penalties not refunded by Tauck under Section I’s Cancellation Waiver would be reimbursable under Section II. This Protection also provides 24-hour emergency assistance services as well as:

Trip Delay – Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.

Medical Expense – Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip.

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Cost is not refundable under any circumstances. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck’s Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:

60 days or more before departure
$1000.00 per person

59-8 days before departure
$1500.00 per person

7-1 days before departure
$2000.00 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Tour Interruption Fees – If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund of land tour costs if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less $40 per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation – A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

Air Services

Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.

Traveler Reviews - Northern India & Nepal

Salwitz

The trip "lacking nothing"

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:October 2014

Why "lacking nothing": because the experience was just that varied. It was a complicated trip and planned and handled very well. From the animal conservation park to the opulent hotels of Delhi and Mumbai it was a joy. Details were handled with great care and we were left to enjoy much of what India has to offer

Most Memorable Moment:

We were in a small town early in the trip at a first class inn and we walked over to the river and observed the funeral/cremation that is customary in this culture. Obviously Everest was notable as well as the many grand meals.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Darline

India and nepal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2013

Oh my gosh ... Talk about visiting another world! Truck orchestrated a journey that is spectacular. A life changing trip. Nepal was a treat. If you cannot get to Mount Everest the flight seeing tour is the next best thing. The Taj Mahal visit was excellent. The smells, the sounds, and the sights grow on you. Unforgettable.

Most Memorable Moment:

We particularly choose this journey for the game drives in the two parks. We were not disappointed. This trip changed our taste buds as we learned about how to use spices and the difference between spices and one or two chilies.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

LSchwartz

India and Nepal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

This is a rigorous trip, and quite an awakening to another culture. Our tour guide Abi made the trip extraordinary. He was knowledgable, compassionate, and handled difficult situations with grace and humor. Too much time was spent getting to the national parks and looking for the elusive tiger. The rest of the trip was brilliant!

Most Memorable Moment:

Finally seeing the bengal tiger! Watching the guide and spotter get so excited when she finally appeared. And we got to see 2….the male and the female. And Mumbai and the lunch boxes was just like the movie. What a treat! And spending time with the sherpa who did the first ascent on Mount Everest…India was an awakening of what is possible!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We are so pleased you enjoyed you overall journey and experineced so many memorable moments. We are sorry that some of the traveling arrangements fell below your expectations and rest assured your comments will be shared with management.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

raj32254

Best India trip I have ever taken as Indian origin

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Abhi was wonderful in answering question everyone of us had. We had best time in Kanha national park as most of us in our group spotted tigers. Health was major concern for our group as many of us got sick on our way back from Nepal. I had bad experience with another client as he had bad attitude towards me & my wife. Made us fill like he hated us.

Most Memorable Moment:

Kahna National Park & Taj Mahal in Agra & Mt Everest in Nepal. Wish we would have been able to see Mt Everest closer than we saw from plane. Excellent trip overall.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for sharing your comments with us. We are very pleased you enjoyed your overall trip. We are sorry you had a poor experience with another guest but still experienced some truly memorable moments. Once again, thank you for your patronage and we do hope you will travel with us again.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

lizbettyn

Trip of a Lifetime!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2015

Firstly,Abi, our excellent leader, set the standard for an amazing trip. He was professional and super organised allowing the trip to run very smoothly.
Our accommodation and the service we received was beyond first class and the itinerary was varied with some wonderful surprises along the way.
All of these features created a trip of a lifetime.

Most Memorable Moment:

So many wonderful memories but when we were finally given the "all clear" to board our flight to Mt Everest and a huge cheer erupted in the airport, is something I will never forget! So much joy!
Smiles and colour! These will always be my memories when I think of my trip to India and Nepal.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

oziekev

This trip needs a lot of re working!!!!!!!!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:October 2014

People need to be aware that this trip is not as advertised.There are several long travel days.Some more than 7.5hrs in small suv's.The Tauck hand out that was given on tour states"each of these vehicles seats 4 people comfortably" This would only be true if your were small in size or had no driver.WHAT HAPPENED TO THE COACH AS STATED.

Most Memorable Moment:

The sights were very good as was the quality of hotels.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?No

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We would like to apologize for the delay in response and we are happy to learn that you are currently working with our Guest Relations Department on a resolution.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

tcastanias

Words cannot describe the experience

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:December 2013

This is a very unique trip. It encompasses so many aspects of India and Nepal-cities, antiquities, history, culture, safari, small towns, countryside, and so much about the people. We had the world's best tour director who is passionate about his country, and went above and beyond the whole trip. It was a wonderful experience, and we would go back!

Most Memorable Moment:

Seeing the female tiger drinking at a stream 15 feet from our safari vehicle! They are very elusive and to see one is special. Second was seeing the Taj Mahal from our bedroom window!! Third was seeing Mt Everest from the air. Our tour director, Abijat [Employee Name], was nothing short of stupendous! He made the trip successful in every respect.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

BillWest66

An Adventure to Remember

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:March 2014

The Northern & Nepal trip is a demanding, wondrous adventure from the teaming cities of Delhi and Mumbai to the quiet of two beautiful, remote National Parks. You need to be ready for a little discomfort during long rides over awful roads and some very early wake up calls but the rewards are worth it. Accommodations and Tour Director were superb.

Most Memorable Moment:

Morning flight over the Himalayas. Taj Mahal. Visits to the small villages near the national parks.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Henri

Too much to do, too little time

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:January 2014

Northern India and Nepal is a very strenuous trip. Too many activities are crammed in. Drives in SUVs are too long. Need to drop 2nd game park and add 1 more day in Nepal and Mumbai instead. Tauck arrangements and admin are outstanding. Hotels are the best. Tour Director was excellent. But I needed some real "down time" along the way

Most Memorable Moment:

Nepal -- visits to cremation site, temples and Himalayas were the highlight of the trip. Seeing a tiger in the wild would have been the memorable moment, but we didn't! Taj Mahal was spectacular too.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We are very pleased you enjoyed your overall journey and experienced some truly memorable moments. We are continually trying to balance the frequent requests for free time on tour vs. more on-tour sight-seeing so rest assured your comments will be looked into immediately. Again we thank you for your patronage and look forward to hosting you on a future adventure.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

David NYC

Northern India and Nepal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:December 2013

This was the best trip from all 19 trips we have taken with Tauck. The itinerary was well structured. We stopped in Delhi and toured the TAJ mahal in Agra. We had several safari TIGER games and video taped a TIGER walking along our path. Abhijat, the tour director, provided information for topology & history. He was always available & ready to help

Most Memorable Moment:

It is always better to visit and admire TAJ mahal the second time. The Tiger Kanha Games drives were great. Watching a Tiger walking in front of us was unbelievable. The private flight to see and admire the snow covered mountains of Everest,Lhote, Shisha Pangma and others was excellent. The Tour Director, Abhijat, made this trip memorable.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

RBerliner

Northern India and Nepal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:December 2013

This trip, our eleventh Tauck tour, ranks among the best.
No other tour we have taken provided such diversity - - Nepal and seeing Mt. Everest from a private airplane, the Tag Mahal and many other UNESCO world heritage monuments in India, the two major Indian cities, and the safaris in two Indian national parks.

Most Memorable Moment:

Difficult to choose. Seeing tigers in the wild, viewing the Himalayas from the air, Taj Mahal, and the Indian countryside are all contenders.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

RW TRAVELER

India and Nepal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:November 2013

Wonderful trip. A very gruling trip, Say Mt Everest and tigers on all trips on safari, Wonderful accomidations and the people we had as guides and hotels were the best. Deli had nothing to offer and could have been cut short! This trip is not a vacation but a expedition always on the go fron sun up to sun down.
Glad we have done the trip.

Most Memorable Moment:

Seing Mt Everest, Taj Mahal, Tigers, Nepal was great and could have spent more time enjoying this country

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Larryd

Northern India/Nepal

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:October 2013

this trip provides visits to sights to behold (Everest, Taj Mahal, tigers in natural setting) as well as a perspective on life/religion/history in India/Nepal that is eye-opening. Driving to/from state parks is on poor roads and ride is bumpy at times. Accomodations first-rate, food choice very good and excellent tour director. Small group great.

Most Memorable Moment:

we had a chance to see a tiger stalking a deer as well as 2 cubs playing in a pond and chasing each other. Tauck group has exclusive park rights at times so we were only group that saw tigers. We were only ones on plane to see Everest and got to visit cockpit while near Everest. Taj Mahal a must see in person. Khajuraho Temple was fascinating!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Aadler9427

Great destination. Poorly planned out.

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:October 2013

After a dozen trips with Tauck we were used to a certain pace of a trip and this one was just not thought out well. You don;t tell your customers that they have 15 minutes to freshen up to get to a temple that is closing in an hour after an 9 hour SUV drive over the worst possible roads. Poor layout of many aspects of the trip left 16 people total

Most Memorable Moment:

ly exhausted. Someone needs to reconfigure some things because you are one of my favorite companies. You rely on word of mouth and the word from this trip will not be as positive as you would like. Saying that the morning flight over Mt. Everest, sunrise at the Taj and the amazingly happy people in rural India will be my best memories.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback. We're sorry that some aspects of the trip fell below your expectations, but are still happy that you returned with some truly memorable moments. We will immediately look into your comments and take any and all corrective actions where necessary.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

EFWoodhouse

Experience of a lifetime

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:February 2013

In 17 days we saw Delhi, Mt Everest, Buddist and Hindu temples, Taj Mahal, monkeys and tigers. Finished up in Mumbai. Great hotels great food. Outstanding tour leader who got us going early to late with great charm and humor.
The pace is fast - as the leader said "this is not a holiday". You need to be ready for 7 hours in an SUV over bumpy roads.

Most Memorable Moment:

Talking with a Buddist monk. Seeing a Hindu river side cremation. Flying near Mt Everest. Watching the sun rise over the Taj Mahal. Tracking tigers.Seeing a typical Indian rural village. Too difficult to choose one.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

TAUCK RESPONSE

Truly an incredible experience. Thank you so much for sharing your memories.

-The Tauck Guest Relations Team

Packing Tips

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we’ve partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.

When packing for travel to India and Nepal, we suggest you select a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. In India, delicate fabrics do not stand up well to laundering facilities except at deluxe hotels. Plain cotton or cotton and synthetic blend clothing is the most practical and is the coolest in summer. It is best to avoid synthetic fabrics that do not “breathe”. A hat with a wide brim will help protect you from the harsh sun. During the fall season, a collapsible umbrella comes in handy. During the winter months, sweaters and light jackets are necessary.

In December and January the temperatures in the national park can drop below freezing level and the Jeep rides can be chilly. Several layers and a windbreaker may be neccessary to remain comfortable.

We do not advise you dress in shorts, mini-skirts or tank tops unless you are on a beach. In small towns and cities, people may tend to stare if you expose too much skin. Most locals dress in modest clothing. To respect local customs and sensitivities when in public, we recommend that women wear skirts below the knee or longer or relatively loose slacks. Avoid wearing sleeveless blouses and tight pants. Young women and teenage girls, especially those dressed in tight or short dresses, may attract undesirable attention. Men should avoid going shirtless; trousers are preferable to shorts.

When visiting places of worship, women are not allowed to enter with bare shoulders, short pants or short skirts; a long skirt, dress, or slacks are recommended. A scarf is acceptable to cover shoulders if a woman is wearing a sleeveless top. Head covering is not required. Men should also dress appropriately for a holy sanctuary. Shorts are discouraged. All visitors will be required to remove their shoes in temples and mosques.

For the welcome and farewell dinners, we recommend resort wear to suit a tropical climate.

Packing is easier with necessaryGear

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – and depending on the destination, what to pack might include footwear, sunglasses, binoculars, hats, etc. We've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Just click the link below and check out all of the great suggestions to make what you pack that much easier!

The Tauck Difference

“

In 17 days we saw Delhi, Mt Everest, Buddist and Hindu temples, the Taj Mahal, monkeys and more, and finished up in Mumbai. Great hotels, great food, and an outstanding Tauck Director who got us going early to late with great charm and humor. The pace is fast; as our TD said, "this is not a holiday." There were so many memorable moments – like talking with a Buddist monk, seeing a Hindu riverside cremation, flying near Mt. Everest, watching the sun rise over the Taj Mahal – that it's too difficult to choose one.